Localism: Coming Home to Catholic Social Teaching

BY DALE AHLQUIST

One of the most misunderstood — and misrepresented — elements of the Catholic Church is her social teaching. It is all too often misconstrued and even held hostage by speculative economic theories and partisan politics. When G. K. Chesterton, Hilaire Belloc, and their colleagues endeavored to promote the ideas of property ownership and independence one hundred years ago, it was frequently misinterpreted due to the terminology used. Here, at last, is a clear explanation of authentic Catholic social teaching, with balanced and practical applications that incorporate morality, justice, and freedom.

This outstanding collection features contributions from some of the finest thinkers in Christianity today, who illustrate the transformative impact of centralization in politics, history, literature, and culture and offer real-life accounts about the success of localism in America and beyond. You will learn:

• What distributism is, and what it is not 
   
• Chesterton’s secret to preserving the seed of civilization 
   
• The true definition of freedom and what it really entails 
   
• How localism is in harmony with America’s founding principles 
   
• Five important lessons from “living on the land” 
   
• Ways technology has eroded localism

The authors show how solutions tend to originate with the family and involve taking an active role in what most directly affects the family, whether in commerce, government, or education. They explain how to develop a truly localist economy — and why you should — and they emphasize the indispensable role of fathers in this crucial task. They also spell out why building a local community is key to preserving faith, heritage, creativity, beauty, and rational politics. Additionally, the authors propose wise methods for strengthening marriages and educating children in modernity.

Other topics include suggestions on how to live cooperatively, develop a more agrarian lifestyle for your family, ease into homesteading, and cultivate an environmental ethic compatible with the faith. You will also find practical ways to revitalize your church and foster a healthier way of life for future generations. Whether you are a Christian or not, this book will open your eyes to “what’s wrong with the world” and give you powerful ideas for making it a better place.